Nick MasonPDG
New member
I received a sample of Solution Finish black trim restorer in my DetailBox this month and it came at the perfect time. I've noticed these white vertical streaks on the front bumper of my van, so I decided to give Solution Finish a shot. Although the bumper is originally a dark gray and not black, I figured Solution Finish would be able to restore the bumper to its original dark color.
Here's what I used to get the job done:
- Generic multi-purpose microfiber towels
- Chemical Guys All-Purpose Cleaner diluted 10:1
- Gtechniq Panel Wipe
- Solution Finish sample bottle
- Boar's hair detailing brush
- Spray bottle filled with water
- Microfiber applicator pad
- Nitrile gloves
I strapped on my gloves and began by cleaning off the bumper using Chemical Guys All-Purpose Cleaner and a bit of water to help activate it. I used a boar's hair brush to do the cleaning since the bumper wasn't overly dirty and it allowed me to get into the corners and crevices. After cleaning the bumper I performed 2 wipe downs with Gtechniq Panel Wipe, just to ensure that the surface was completely clean. Diluted IPA will also work for this step.
Application was very easy, I simply applied a dime sized drop to the microfiber applicator pad and spread it evenly across the bumper. As I spread the product and it began to thin out, I would just add another drop to the applicator and continue spreading until the bumper was completely coated. I would say a little goes a long way, I probably only used 1/3 of this small sample bottle. I let it sit for a few minutes, then very gently buffed off any excess. When you start buffing you will notice immediately where excess product is because it's substantially glossier than the product that has actually bonded to the plastic. The bonded product leaves a like new finish. I would call it "sheen" because it does give off a shine, but it's far from a high gloss wet to the touch type shine.
Here are the "how to use" directions directly from the manufacturer:
- For best results, apply to a clean, cool surface in the shade.
- Wear gloves and eye protection.
- Shake bottle well and apply a small amount to applicator pad or microfiber sponge.
- Spread a thin coat over area in an even motion, covering area completely.
- Allow solution to penetrate for 1-2 minutes.
- Use a clean microfiber sponge or foam pad to buff off excess and wipe off glass and paint (will stain unsealed paint).
The sample bottle
Here's what I started with
Some cleaning action....You can see the dark black scuff marks, I was hoping they would become less noticeable after application
A couple 50/50 shots
aaaaand here's the finished product
I followed the manufacturers directions and was very pleased with the results. As you can see, the white faded and streaking areas are no longer visible and black scuffs are less noticeable now that the bumper is darker.
I purposely got the product on the side markers as well as the paint for testing purposes. I immediately wiped it off with no issues at all, but I'm assuming if the product is left to cure for a minute or two it will likely need to be polished off.
I've marked my calendar to inspect the bumper every two weeks and eventually I will post an update of the long term durability.
Here's what I used to get the job done:
- Generic multi-purpose microfiber towels
- Chemical Guys All-Purpose Cleaner diluted 10:1
- Gtechniq Panel Wipe
- Solution Finish sample bottle
- Boar's hair detailing brush
- Spray bottle filled with water
- Microfiber applicator pad
- Nitrile gloves
I strapped on my gloves and began by cleaning off the bumper using Chemical Guys All-Purpose Cleaner and a bit of water to help activate it. I used a boar's hair brush to do the cleaning since the bumper wasn't overly dirty and it allowed me to get into the corners and crevices. After cleaning the bumper I performed 2 wipe downs with Gtechniq Panel Wipe, just to ensure that the surface was completely clean. Diluted IPA will also work for this step.
Application was very easy, I simply applied a dime sized drop to the microfiber applicator pad and spread it evenly across the bumper. As I spread the product and it began to thin out, I would just add another drop to the applicator and continue spreading until the bumper was completely coated. I would say a little goes a long way, I probably only used 1/3 of this small sample bottle. I let it sit for a few minutes, then very gently buffed off any excess. When you start buffing you will notice immediately where excess product is because it's substantially glossier than the product that has actually bonded to the plastic. The bonded product leaves a like new finish. I would call it "sheen" because it does give off a shine, but it's far from a high gloss wet to the touch type shine.
Here are the "how to use" directions directly from the manufacturer:
- For best results, apply to a clean, cool surface in the shade.
- Wear gloves and eye protection.
- Shake bottle well and apply a small amount to applicator pad or microfiber sponge.
- Spread a thin coat over area in an even motion, covering area completely.
- Allow solution to penetrate for 1-2 minutes.
- Use a clean microfiber sponge or foam pad to buff off excess and wipe off glass and paint (will stain unsealed paint).
The sample bottle
Here's what I started with
Some cleaning action....You can see the dark black scuff marks, I was hoping they would become less noticeable after application
A couple 50/50 shots
aaaaand here's the finished product
I followed the manufacturers directions and was very pleased with the results. As you can see, the white faded and streaking areas are no longer visible and black scuffs are less noticeable now that the bumper is darker.
I purposely got the product on the side markers as well as the paint for testing purposes. I immediately wiped it off with no issues at all, but I'm assuming if the product is left to cure for a minute or two it will likely need to be polished off.
I've marked my calendar to inspect the bumper every two weeks and eventually I will post an update of the long term durability.
